How to Get the Transcript of a YouTube Video (3 Easy Methods)
Need the text version of a YouTube video? Whether you want lecture notes, a quote for research, or content to repurpose, there are three reliable ways to get a full transcript of any YouTube video — from YouTube's own caption tool to instant AI generators.
Follow These Steps:
Method 1: Use YouTube's Built-In Transcript
On desktop, open the video, click the three-dot menu below the video (or expand the description), and select 'Show transcript'. YouTube displays its auto-generated captions as a scrollable transcript panel. Note: this only works if captions exist and you can't download it as a file.
Method 2: Paste the URL into a Transcript Generator
Copy the video link from YouTube's share button. Go to TranscribeYT, paste it into the input bar, and click 'Get Transcript'. Within seconds you get the complete, timestamped transcript — even for videos where you'd have to click through captions manually.
Method 3: Transcribe Videos Without Captions
If a video has no captions at all, use TranscribeYT's file upload: download the audio, then let the AI speech recognition engine transcribe it from scratch with high accuracy.
Save or Export Your Transcript
Copy the plain text with one click, or export it as PDF, Word, Markdown, SRT, or TXT depending on what you need it for.
Why It Matters
- Works even when videos have no visible captions.
- Get timestamped transcripts you can search and cite.
- Export to PDF, Word, Markdown, SRT, or plain text instantly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get the transcript of a YouTube video for free?
Paste the video URL into TranscribeYT and get your first transcript free — no payment required. Free accounts also include monthly free transcriptions.
Why can't I see the 'Show transcript' option on YouTube?
The option only appears when the uploader added captions or YouTube auto-generated them. If it's missing, use an AI transcription tool like TranscribeYT, which transcribes the audio directly.
Can I get a transcript on my phone?
Yes. The mobile YouTube app hides the transcript feature, but transcript generator websites like TranscribeYT work in any mobile browser — just paste the video URL.
Does the transcript include timestamps?
Yes, you can view the transcript with per-sentence timestamps or copy it as clean plain text without timestamps.
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